"We are ready for jihad" - Taliban

The Taliban diplomat to Pakistan has said "we are ready for jihad", in response to the launch of attacks by Britain and the United States on the Afghan cities of Kabul, Jalalabad and Kandahar.

The first explosions could be heard at 5.27PM Irish time after darkness fell on Kabul. Five large explosions shook the city, followed by the sounds of anti-aircraft fire.